Dear Parents, Guardians and Students,
In this week's newsletter, please find our latest updates and important information, including:
Preschool embarks on an artful adventure at CCB
Primary brings history to life in a play about the Battle of Sao Mamede
Middle School explores the theme of sustainable cities in Cascais
Secondary shares A-level insights with peers
Highlight Event - Gregório Duvivier inspires with lecture on the power of Portuguese Language
Highlight Event - STEM Week Success
Highlight Event - Aprendizes students shine at Barcelona MUN
Upcoming Event - Open Day for New Families
Upcoming Event - Bio Market (Christmas Edition)
Reminder: Christmas Celebrations
Grade 9 engages in a Workshop on Food Waste Awareness
Bi-weekly Menu/ Country Days in Our Kitchen
December’s Seasonal Star: PERSIMMON
Parents Satisfaction Survey 2024
New Drop-Off and Pick-Up System
Parents Organisation Committee (POC) & School Administration Meeting
Extracurricular Activities: Registration and Cancelation
Christmas Charity Campaign
Save the Date: Regeneration Festival
Lost & Found Display
Professional Development Program
New Partnership: GRF MURCHES
Get to know our Partnerships
Dear Students, Parents and Guardians,
Language is one of the most profound tools we possess. It shapes how we perceive the world, connect with others, and even define ourselves. As Paulo Freire eloquently taught, language is not merely a means of communication—it is a tool for liberation and transformation. It allows us to create meaning, and in a world that often feels chaotic, meaning-making is one of the most vital competencies we can develop.
With this immense power, however, comes great responsibility. The words we choose can either uplift or wound, include or exclude. As a school community, we must be intentional about using language that appreciates and uplifts others, fostering an environment of inclusivity and mutual respect. Degrading or humiliating language has no place in our interactions. Instead, let us wield language as a force for good—to inspire, unite, and build bridges of understanding.
Recently, I had the privilege of visiting the 9A English First Language class, where students delivered speeches inspired by Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream.” Their powerful words reflected their hopes and dreams for a better future and their desire to improve the world around them. It was a proud moment to witness their understanding of how language can spark ideas, build empathy, and create positive change.
With the great talk of Gregório Duvivier last week, we were reminded of the power and beauty of the Portuguese language. Let us continue to harness the power of language with intention and care, knowing that through our words, we can shape the world for the better.
Warm regards,
Rikke Friis Mikkelsen
PRESCHOOL embarks on an artful adventure at CCB
The Sonhadores Pre-School class enjoyed an inspiring and educational outing to the Centro Cultural de Belém (CCB).
They engaged in an interactive activity titled "À Procura de uma Ideia" ("In Search of an Idea"), where they were challenged to observe an isolated fragment of a work of art and then explore the museum to identify the complete piece.
PRIMARY brings history to life in a play about the Battle of Sao Mamede
Grade 4 teachers dressed up and engaged the students in a historical play about D. Henrique de Borgonha and the Battle of São Mamede.
The teachers designed the play to highlight key historical moments, where one of the most exciting moments was the reenactment of the historic battle. Guided by their teachers, the students were divided into two groups—"Portucalenses" and "Galegos"—to represent the struggle for the independence of the County of Portugal.
MIDDLE SCHOOL explores the theme of sustainable cities in Cascais
6th-grade students embarked on an educational field trip on sustainable cities. The outing provided hands-on learning experiences across several locations in Cascais, fostering discussions about sustainability, community inclusion, and environmental stewardship.
In addition to their structured activities, students demonstrated civic responsibility by conducting a beach cleanup at Praia da Ribeira.
SECONDARY shares A-level insights with peers
Grade 12 students at our school presented their perspectives and advice on various A-Level subjects to grade 10 and 11 students in a special peer-led session.
The event was primarily student-led, fostering a comfortable environment for open dialogue. For our teachers, it was rewarding to see the depth of thought the grade 12 students brought to their reflections—a maturity that reflects their growth over their academic journeys.
TOMORROW | PARENTS COFFEE MORNING (8:45 AM to 9:30 AM)
10 DEC | OPEN DAY FOR NEW FAMILIES (9:00 TO 10:30 AM)
10 DEC | UNIVERSITY CHATS “FROM CAMPUS TO CLASSROOMS: TEACHERS SHARE THEIR UNIVERSITY STORIES” (10:20 TO 10:40 AM)
10 DEC | PARENT INFORMATION SESSION - IGCSE and GCE Focus (3:00 PM)
10 DEC | BOOK CLUB FOR ADOLESCENCE (6:30 PM)
11 DEC | UNIVERSITY CHATS “FROM CAMPUS TO CLASSROOMS: TEACHERS SHARE THEIR UNIVERSITY STORIES” (10:20 TO 10:40 AM)
13 DEC | CHRISTMAS CONCERT (2:00 TO 4:00 PM)
13 DEC | BIOMARKET (CHRISTMAS EDITION) (4:15 TO 6:00 PM)
18 DEC | CHESS TOURNAMENT (09:00 AM TO 12:00 PM)
18, 19 DEC | MODEL UNITED NATIONS (MUN) AT APRENDIZES
20 DEC | PRESCHOOL & PRIMARY CHRISTMAS PARTY
HIGHLIGHT EVENT
GREGÓRIO DUVIVIER INSPIRES WITH LECTURE ON THE POWER OF THE PORTUGUESE LANGUAGE
The Language Department at Aprendizes - International Active Learning School was honored to host acclaimed Brazilian artist Gregório Duvivier for an exclusive lecture, which captivated students and staff with his reflections on the richness and influence of the Portuguese language.
During the event, Duvivier shared insights into the role of language in shaping culture and creativity, drawing poignant connections to the theatrical production currently being staged in Lisbon “O Céu da Língua”. His discussion highlighted how the Portuguese language serves as a powerful tool for storytelling, fostering both personal expression and collective identity.
HIGHLIGHT EVENT
STEM WEEK SUCCESS
STEM Week wrapped up last week and we can now look back on a great event. Filled with hands-on activities, challenges, and projects, the week celebrated the exciting worlds of Science, Mathematics, and IT.
A highlight of STEM Week was the Brain sessions for secondary students, which showcased the powerful intersection of physics, Biology, technology and medicine. The session on Proton Therapy provided an in-depth exploration of how physics drives life-saving technologies, while the “Exploring the Brain” session offered insights into the role of physics in understanding brain function and the complex processes of the human body. Students also had the unique opportunity to use specialized medical software for brain tumor analysis, gaining hands-on experience with cutting-edge tools used in healthcare.
HIGHLIGHT EVENT
APRENDIZES STUDENTS SHINE AT BARCELONA MUN
Last week, a team of Aprendizes students from grades 8-12 attended the 12th edition of the Barcelona Model United Nations Conference (BCNMUN) at the Hotel 1898, near Plaça Catalunya. This year’s theme, “Identities in Conflict: Building Bridges to Unite and Finding Solutions to Thrive,” focused on addressing global challenges related to identity and conflict resolution.
The event brought together students, offering them a unique opportunity to engage in international diplomacy and develop their skills in public speaking, negotiation, and critical thinking.
UPCOMING EVENT
OPEN DAY TO NEW FAMILIES AT APRENDIZES
We are excited to welcome new families to our Open Day, taking place on December 10th at 9:00 AM TO 10:30 AM. This is a wonderful opportunity for prospective families to learn more about our school community and educational programs. During the event, you will:
Meet our Principal and Head of Academics, who will provide valuable insights into our school’s vision and curriculum.
Enjoy a personalized tour of the section that interests you most: Preschool, Primary, Middle School, or Secondary. See firsthand how we nurture and challenge students at every stage of their education.
To ensure a seamless experience, registration is required.
Please if your know any interested families tell them to register early to secure their spot! The event will be hosted in English Language.
UPCOMING EVENT
JOIN US FOR BIO MARKET
CHRISTMAS EDITION
Date: Friday, 13th December
Time: 4:15 PM – 6:00 PM
Location: The Tent
REGISTRATION HERE (only for selling partners)
Come and discover a fantastic selection of organic and sustainable products while supporting our local vendors. It’s a wonderful chance to enjoy a beautiful afternoon, shop for eco-friendly goods, and continue contributing to our community’s green initiatives.
REMINDER
CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS
13 dec | 2:00 to 4:00 | Christmas Concert 🎶
We invite you to gather in the refectory for our Christmas Concert, which this year will feature beautiful performances by our middle school students that capture the magic of the season and celebrate their talents.
We kindly ask all parents to stay until the end the concert to support and celebrate all the performers—your encouragement means the world to them! 🎶👏
20 DEC | 9:30 TO 12:00 | PRESCHOOL & PRIMARY CHRISTMAS PARTY
PRESCHOOL
9:30 – 10:30: Musical performance by the children + Parents’ theatre play
10:30-12:00: Shared brunch in classrooms
PRIMARY
9:30 – 10:30: Shared brunch in classrooms
10:30 - 12:00: Musical performance by the children + Parents’ theatre play
All students are more then welcome to join us for the musical performance and parent’s theatre.
GRADE 9 ENGAGES IN A WORKSHOP ON FOOD WASTE AWARENESS
At the request of our Head of Academics, 9th-grade students took part in an engaging workshop on food waste prevention by Eunice Maia, our sustainability consultant, held to conclude our week-long focus on waste reduction. The workshop combined impactful statistics with hands-on learning, equipping students with practical knowledge and strategies to combat food waste in their daily lives.
After completing the activities, students reviewed the correct answers, solidifying their understanding of food waste prevention methods. They also met with our school kitchen manager, Joana Xardoné, who shared insights into the school’s ongoing efforts to reduce food waste. Joana explained how the kitchen team monitors food usage, repurposes ingredients creatively, and collaborates with suppliers to minimize excess.
A Call to Action
The workshop inspired students to reflect on their own habits and consider actionable steps to reduce waste at home and in the community (We want to see what changes the students have made at home after this session full of tips, please share it with us) It marked a meaningful conclusion to Waste Reduction Week, leaving participants empowered to make sustainable choices and contribute to a better future.
Our Next Country Days:
December 12th - SCOTLAND in our Kitchen
December 13th - GERMAN in our Kitchen
DECEMBER SEASONAL STAR: PERSIMMON
The diospyro or persimmon is a beloved fruit of the December season, cherished for its vibrant color, firm texture, and naturally sweet flavor. This crisp variety is perfect for enjoying fresh, much like an apple, with its smooth, edible skin adding to its appeal.
Versatile and easy to enjoy, persimmons can be eaten as they are—just wash and bite—or sliced to enhance salads, cheese platters, or desserts. Their bright orange hue and sweet taste make them a festive addition to any dish.
Beyond their deliciousness, persimmons are a nutritional powerhouse. Packed with vitamins A and C, dietary fiber, and antioxidants, they offer numerous health benefits, from boosting the immune system and aiding digestion to promoting healthy, glowing skin.
Whether as a quick snack or a flavorful ingredient, persimmons bring a touch of seasonal sweetness and vibrant health to your table.
PARENTS SATISFACTION SURVEY 2024
At our school, we believe that continuous feedback is essential for growth and improvement. This survey is a vital tool to help us learn how we can better support our students toward becoming the best possible place to learn. By sharing your insights, you help us identify what we can do to improve, ensuring we create an environment where everyone thrives.
This time, we’re asking you to include your name, if you feel comfortable. Our goal is to foster a culture of open, constructive dialogue where we communicate with each other—not about each other. We encourage you to share your thoughts honestly and respectfully, keeping in mind that we are all people working toward the same goal: to ensure that our students achieve, thrive and engage.
You have until December 13th to complete it. Please fill one survey for each child.
We deeply value your perspective and count on your thoughtful contributions.
Thank you for helping us grow. We look forward to hearing your feedback!
NEW DROP-OFF & PICK UP SYSTEM
We are excited to announce the implementation of a new drop-off and pick-up system! This initiative comes as a result of the collaborative efforts of the Traffic Committee, which includes school staff and three parent representatives.
The committee has been meeting throughout this term to evaluate and design a more efficient and safe process for everyone. Full details of the new system will be shared with you in a separate email during the upcoming week.
These adjustments were identified as an effective solution for our school community.
Your feedback and cooperation will help refine these procedures for the future.
PARENTS ORGANISATION COMMITTEE (POC) &
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION MEETING
Last week, the Parents Organisation Committee (POC), with the representatives from all sections, met with school representatives Erwin, Teresa, Veronica, and Rikke.
The meeting focused on the following key points:
School Fees Proposal for 2025/26:
The school presented its considerations and initial proposal for the 2025/26 school fees, as agreed with the POC last year. The POC provided input, with the understanding that re-enrolment will open mid-January 2024, coinciding with the announcement of the final fees.
School Year 2025/26 Calendar and Parent Satisfaction Survey:
The POC reviewed and gave feedback on the proposed calendar for the 2025/26 school year.
Input was also provided on the questions for the Parent Satisfaction Survey, which opens today.
Updates and Discussions:
Traffic Committee: The school shared an update from the traffic committee. These will be communicated with all parents in a separate email during next week.
Construction Plans: Erwin gave an update on the construction project. We will share an update with the community at the beginning of the next term.
Teacher Evaluation: The school outlined the annual feedback loop process for teacher evaluations in response to POC inquiries.
This collaborative meeting provided the POC with an opportunity to offer valuable input on key topics, helping the school leadership gain a better understanding of the families’ perspectives and incorporating that knowledge into future decision-making processes. This committee meets once every term.
Extracurricular Activities
REGISTRATION & CANCELLATION
The period for registering or canceling extracurricular activities for the January-April term is December 9 to 13. Details about activities and fees here and information on partner activities is available on our website.
Key Points:
Current registrations will continue unless updated.
Changes after December 13 require a medical certificate.
Registrations are subject to school confirmation and capacity limits.
Please check your email for more details.
SAVE THE DATE:
REGENERATION FESTIVAL
Mark your calendars for the Regeneration Festival on April 3-4, 2025! 🌍
This edition of the Regeneration Festival 2025 will spotlight sustainability and the global goals, focusing on Sustainable Development Goals 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and 13 (Climate Action)
Stay tuned for more details!
LOST & FOUND DISPLAY:
Available Until December 20th
We would like to inform everyone that all items in the Lost & Found will be on display until December 20. If you have lost any belongings, please make sure to visit the designated area and check for your items before this date.
After December 20th, all unclaimed items will be donated to charity.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
Our school is deeply committed to supporting our teachers' professional development and as part of this commitment we are continuing to develop the Teacher Development Program aimed at fostering open dialogue and collaboration in improving teaching and learning across the school.
Through this program, teachers are encouraged to share their self-reflection related to classroom practices with their line mangers. These discussions help us identify key areas for improvement, implement practical solutions, and ensure a supportive teaching environment.
By promoting a culture of continuous improvement, we aim to empower our educators to provide the best learning experiences for our students.
NEW PARTNERSHIP: GRF MURCHES
It is with great enthusiasm that we announce our new partnership between GRF Murches and Escola Aprendizes! This collaboration aims to promote sport and offer our members a unique and enriching experience in terms of commitment, team spirit, respect for others and overcoming obstacles. With regular figure skating and roller hockey classes for various ages and skill levels, our students can choose to compete, if they wish, in a federated competition at district and national level.
We look forward to welcoming you all to our club!